A Remarkable Man Exhibition

The Gallery at the Winchester Discovery Centre is hosting an exhibition with a bit of a difference. Instead of focussing on the works of a particular artist, theme or style, the exhibition will be dedicated to the work and contributions of curator David Brown. Running from the 20th of January until the 20th of March 2018, the exhibition features works from Brown's private collection and celebrates this 'remarkable man'.

Photograph of River with Poplars, circa 1912. Oil on wood, by Roger Fry. In the public domain.

Brown was described as an unusual man, and his time as an art curator and collector left an imprint on Britain's art establishment. Brown's bearded and somewhat dishevelled look was not entirely what was expected of a keeper of some of Britain's best artworks. His love of art was inspired by a trip to the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, where a collection of Tang and Song ceramics from China inspired Brown to begin to compile a vast reference library in art and eventually a collection of works. At the time he was working as a veterinary surgeon, but in 1973 he joined National Gallery of Modern Art as the assistant keeper. Brown continued as an eccentric figure in the art world until his death in 2002 at age 76.

Brown's private collection includes an eclectic mix of works by British artists such as Roger Fry, Gilbert & George, Richard Long and Howard Hodgkin. There are of course also works by abstract artist Roger Hilton; Brown managed to amass a collection of 53 of Hilton's paintings.

The exhibition is not ticketed and entry is free, so bookings are not required. If you do require any further information you can contact the Winchester Discovery Centre on 01962 873603.

The Winchester Discovery Centre is located on Jewry St, Winchester. The Gallery is open from 9am-7pm Monday to Friday and from 9am-5pm on Saturdays and 11am-3pm on Sundays. The Discover Centre is about 12 miles outside of Southampton and is easily accessible by bus or train.